Used to indicate a general summary or the most common viewpoint. By and large, the new policies were accepted by everyone.
Pro Tip 2/3
Speaking Broadly
Signals that what follows is a broad generalization, not a specific or detailed observation. Immigration policies, by and large, are a controversial topic.
Pro Tip 3/3
Casual Tone
The phrase carries an informal tone and might not be suitable for formal writing. Teenagers, by and large, prefer texting over calling.